How to Use Epsom Salt to Relieve Back Pain

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Many adults experience lower back pain, which makes back pain the second most common reason people visit their doctors, that is according to the University of Maryland Medical Center. If you have persistent pain in your back, consulting your doctor can help determine the cause and the best treatments available, which may include Epsom salt soaks.

Epsom salt has been used for years to remove all kinds of aches and pains. Just a simple soak in the tub may help you feel better.

How to Use Epsom Salt to Relieve Back Pain
epsom salt for back pain / photo credit: vkool

Benefits of Epsom Salt

Epsom salt is a compound that is composed of sulfate and magnesium. These are 2 types of mineral that can be absorbed through the skin and ingested as well.

Epsom salt can look a lot like the ordinary table salt, but its chemical composition is quite different. You can find Epsom salt in home improvement stores or drug stores.

How Epsom Salt Works for Back Pain

According to the Epsom Salt Council, soaking or bathing in Epsom salt can benefit back pain in various ways. It can help reduce inflammation that can cause injury and other condition-related back pain.

It can also help relieve tension and stress that exacerbate back pain. Soaking in Epsom salt can promote nervous system health, which may help in reducing some kinds of back pain.

Most people do not get enough magnesium, which can affect their muscle, nerve and enzyme function, ultimately contributing to inflammation and pain that can affect your back, according to the Epsom Salt Council. Bathing or just soaking in epsom salt is one of the best ways to get its benefits. This is because since your body does not process ingested magnesium as efficiently, as it does absorbed magnesium.

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How to Take Epsom Salt Bath

Directions:
1. The water should be very warm and comfortable to the touch, but not hot.
2. Put the epsom salt while the water is running to help it dissolve. For a standard-sized tub, just follow the amount suggested on the package, which is usually 1 to 2 cups, or the amount recommended by your doctor.
3. Keep the part of your body that is hurting in the water for at least 12 minutes and just relax.

Note:
Consult with your doctor about how often and how long you should soak.

Read More:
1. How to Relieve Backache
2. Try These Exercises for Lower Back Pain
3. Don’t Let Your Back Get Back On You Habits That Ruin Your Back

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